GWENAELLE Dupuy and Huw Vaughan-Davies, pictured, should have a spectacular send-off as they leave for their charity 'tandem odyssey'.

VIPs will say farewell to the pair from the historic Newport Transporter Bridge at the beginning of their epic ride to Patagonia.

Ms Dupuy and Mr Vaughan-Davies expect to take about 15 months to cover the 10,000 miles through Europe and Latin America.

The Newport couple are raising money for the Red Cross while they undertake their dream trip.

Newport's mayor Councillor Ray Truman, vice president of the Red Cross Chris Moreton, and Newport's AMs will be among those giving the pair an official send-off.

They will be given a guard of honour by the 29th Newport Sea Scouts and local cyclists.

After speeches, 31-year-old teacher Ms Dupuy and her fellow adventurer, a 30-year-old occupational therapist, will make the first trip of the day across the river on the bridge's gondola.

They will be met on the other side by a welcoming party before setting off on their journey.

It is all taking place on Sunday, which is also Heritage Open Day.

After the couple have left on their journey, at about 12.15pm, the bridge will be open to the public.

The Friends of Newport Transporter Bridge (FONTB) have organised the day's events.

Free access is once again being offered to the top of the bridge and the motor house.

Previous open days have proved a great success.